Shayan Jahangir calls for more funding for Associate teams from ICC as USA batter urges global body to nurture Associate nations for better exposure and preparation in the T20 World Cup.
Shayan Jahangir Calls for More Funding for Associate Teams from ICC
Shayan Jahangir calls for more funding for Associate teams from ICC as the USA batter publicly urged the global governing body to provide greater financial backing and exposure to developing cricket nations ahead of their T20 World Cup fixture against Netherlands in Chennai.
Speaking to the media, the 31-year-old made a passionate appeal, stating that Associate nations are capable of competing with the biggest teams — but require proper nurturing, infrastructure, and financial support to truly flourish on the global stage.
Shayan Jahangir Calls for More Funding for Associate Teams from ICC – “We Haven’t Been Nurtured Properly”
Reinforcing his message, Shayan Jahangir calls for more funding for Associate teams from ICC by highlighting the lack of resources available to emerging cricket nations.
“The exposure and the kind of funding that we get from ICC is lacking,” Jahangir said.
He emphasized that Associate teams have already proven their competitiveness in this T20 World Cup.
- Nepal nearly defeated England
- USA had India struggling at 75 for 6
- Several Associate nations pushed major teams to the brink
“We’ve been given the tag of Associate nation, but we are nothing short of a great team.”
Jahangir pointed out that with better funding and consistent preparation opportunities, Associate teams could regularly challenge established cricketing powerhouses.
Funding and Preparation Gap Compared to Full Members
Another key point in the discussion was preparation.
Top nations often schedule bilateral series before global tournaments:
- India hosted New Zealand
- Australia toured Pakistan
- Major teams arrived battle-ready
Associate nations, however, lack those opportunities.
“Preparation is very important. And it has a lot to do with funding as well.”
Jahangir stressed that without financial backing, teams cannot arrange competitive fixtures or access world-class facilities.
“If ICC pays more attention to us and nurtures Associate nations, you’ll see more big games.”
The repeated message remains clear: Shayan Jahangir calls for more funding for Associate teams from ICC to bridge the competitive gap.
Talent Exists in Associate Cricket
Jahangir highlighted examples of world-class talent emerging from Associate nations, including Nepal’s Dipendra Singh Airee, who famously struck a nine-ball half-century.
“There are so many cricketers who are so good but not given the exposure.”
He argued that if such performances happened at the highest Full Member level, players would receive global recognition instantly.
Instead, many talented Associate cricketers struggle to secure league contracts or consistent international exposure.
Growth of Cricket in the United States
Despite funding challenges, cricket in the United States is growing rapidly.
Jahangir credited Major League Cricket (MLC) for expanding awareness.
“Since the inception of Major League Cricket, cricket has blossomed in the country.”
He noted:
- Youth participation increasing
- Greater awareness among American-born players
- Growing fan interest
“Four or five years ago, people didn’t even know that America had a cricket team,” he added.
This growth further strengthens why Shayan Jahangir calls for more funding for Associate teams from ICC, as investment now could accelerate development in emerging markets like the USA.
Emotional Full-Circle Moment vs Pakistan
Reflecting on his personal journey, Jahangir described facing Pakistan — his birth nation — in the World Cup as a full-circle moment.
Having represented Pakistan at the U19 level, he admitted:
“I never imagined playing against Pakistan in the World Cup.”
Now representing USA, he expressed gratitude for how his career path has unfolded.
“I’m just grateful to be playing for the USA cricket team.”
Why ICC Support Could Change Global Cricket
If the ICC increases funding for Associate nations:
- More competitive World Cups
- Stronger global cricket ecosystem
- Expanded fan bases in new markets
- Increased commercial value
The appeal is not just financial — it’s strategic for the future of the sport.
As clearly emphasized throughout, Shayan Jahangir calls for more funding for Associate teams from ICC to unlock the untapped potential within Associate cricket.
